The Shadow
COVINGTON, VA (VR) — Nineteen students in the Class of 2026 at Alleghany High School will be the first to earn the Cougar Compass Seal, a new graduation distinction recognizing student readiness for life after high school through achievement in academics, leadership, service and future planning.
Developed with input from the school’s Principal Senate, the Cougar Compass Seal is now an official recognition available to graduating seniors who meet defined criteria across four areas of student growth. School officials said the seal is designed to honor students who go beyond standard graduation requirements and show strong preparation for college, careers, and other postsecondary paths.
Principal Derek Cantrell said the seal supports the school’s mission of preparing students for what comes next after graduation.
“The Cougar Compass Seal is about recognizing students who are intentionally building skills for their future while still in high school,” Cantrell said. “It highlights academic achievement, leadership, service and career readiness in a way that reflects who our students are and who they are becoming.”
Cantrell added that the recognition reflects the school’s culture and values.
“This is about celebrating well-rounded students who represent what it means to be a Cougar,” he said. “They are focused, they are involved, and they are leaving Alleghany High School prepared for the next step.”
The seal reflects the school motto, “Rooted in Purpose. Guided by Values. Ready for What’s Next,” and is grounded in the expectation that students demonstrate growth in focus, compassion, courage, and readiness for the future.
To earn the seal, students must meet requirements in four “compass points.” Academic Purpose requires a 3.0 GPA or higher, passing at least one Career and Technical Education credential exam, and earning one additional academic distinction, such as dual enrollment, Advanced Placement coursework, or a school academic honor.
In Service to Others, students must complete community service, participate in school service activities, or lead a service project. In Leadership and Involvement, students must hold leadership roles or participate in school programs such as clubs, athletics or other activities. In Future Readiness, students must complete activities such as job shadowing, internships, resume development, FAFSA completion, or college, trade, or
military applications.
Students who earn the Cougar Compass Seal will receive a diploma seal, graduation pin, recognition in the graduation program, and acknowledgment through school communications and social media.
Cantrell said the first group of students helps set the standard for the program moving forward.
“Our Class of 2026 students are the first to earn this distinction, and that makes it especially meaningful,” he said. “They are helping establish what excellence looks like for future Cougars.”
The inaugural Cougar Compass Seal recipients are: Evan Bishop, Peyton Broughman, Victoria Campbell, Joowon Chung, Willow Davis, Brycen Griffith, Ambrosia Higgins, Hannah Hensley, Taylor Jenkins, Kathryn Johnson, Kiera Lowman, Makaylee Loudermilk, Meredith Minter, Carter Nicely, Tucker Phillips, Ezekiel Saville, Brenden Seckner, Emma Skidmore, and Taylor Stayton.
School officials said the seal does not change Virginia graduation requirements and does not add requirements for all students. It is a voluntary recognition that complements existing state diploma seals.
Students complete an application process that includes documentation of their work and a short reflection reviewed by a committee of administrators, counselors, and staff.
School officials said the goal is simple: to recognize student effort and give families and the community a clear picture of the skills students are building before graduation.
